Crisis may push girls into child labor

The global economic crisis could force more girls out of education and into child labor, experts said on the eve of World Day against Child Labour.

Over 100 million girls are involved in child labor worldwide, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO)'s latest report. The crisis threatens girls in many ways.

"When families have to choose between educating a boy or a girl, the girl often loses out," said Guy Thijs, Deputy Regional Director, ILO Regional Office for Asia-Pacific. "Many are expected to give priority to household chores or economic activities over education and skills training."